Lautaro Martinez Returns to Lead Inter Against Barcelona in Champions League

Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez has recovered from a recent hamstring injury and will start alongside Marcus Thuram in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Barcelona at San Siro, providing a significant boost for coach Simone Inzaghi. Martinez, who has been crucial in Inter's European campaign with multiple goals, was initially a fitness doubt but has been cleared to play, though he may not be fully fit. The atmosphere at San Siro is expected to be electric, with fans preparing a stadium-wide tifo and ending recent protests to fully support the team from kick-off. Inter will be without Benjamin Pavard due to injury, while Barcelona will start Eric Garcia at right-back and keep Robert Lewandowski on the bench. The tie is finely balanced after a thrilling 3-3 first leg, and both managers have acknowledged the pressure and high stakes of the encounter. Former Inter striker Iván Zamorano emphasized the potential impact of home support, suggesting it could be decisive in such a closely contested match.